How soon after tummy tuck can I stand up straight? (2023)

FAQs

How soon after tummy tuck can I stand up straight? ›

Turner recommends you avoid standing up straight for at least a week after your abdominoplasty. This eliminates any unwelcomed strain and allows for your surgical incision wounds to heal.

We recommend maintaining a 'hunched at the hips' standing position for at least 2 weeks, with most patients returning to their regular straightened posture within 2-3 weeks. Circumferential tummy tuck patients are categorised by a 360° incision extending across the abdomen and around the lower back.

Many patients experience tightness around their belly and you will have to walk while hunched over for a week or two. Your incisions will likely feel sore over the first week.

Stand up tall, lengthen your spine like you're pressed back against a wall, and make sure to keep your shoulders back, belly tucked in, and knees straight. 3. Get some exercise to strengthen your core muscles.

Start by walking a little more than you did the day before. Bit by bit, increase the amount you walk. Walking boosts blood flow and helps prevent pneumonia and constipation. Avoid abdominal exercises and strenuous activities, such as bicycle riding, jogging, weight lifting, or aerobic exercise, for 6 to 8 weeks.

According to most patients, the second and third days after the tummy tuck are the worst as the pain peaks. However, you can control the pain by taking your prescribed pain medications.

If you have a “mini tummy tuck” with a smaller incision, you'll likely need between one and three weeks of elevated sleeping. On the other hand, full-tummy tuck patients require about four weeks, with six weeks of limiting any strenuous exercise or lifting.

As part of the recovery process, patients will need to hunch or bend over at the waist when walking for about a week after a tummy tuck.

While it's necessary for you to walk often during recovery, it's equally important not to avoid overexertion or to do anything strenuous for several weeks after surgery. Overdoing it can put you back to square one and lead to complications such as swelling and increased pain.

During abdominoplasty, the tissues are pulled tight at the waste line. It's important to maintain a bent over, or jackknifed position when standing and when walking for the first week or so. As the tissues begin to heal, it is safe to achieve a more straight position.

Can I sleep on my side 2 weeks after tummy tuck? ›

The reason why you can't sleep on your side after a tummy tuck is that it creates too much tension in the surgical area and can be painful. Sleeping on your side after 3 or 5 weeks after the tummy tuck is even better. In addition to sleeping in the right position, it is also important to ensure a comfortable recovery.

Generally, patients should see their flat tummy emerge within three to six months, though it may take as long as a year. Depending on your starting anatomy, a truly flat stomach may not be possible.

Although Zingers can be a little uncomfortable and annoying, they are completely normal and actually a good sign of healing. It means that the nerves have not been damaged or cut but stretched and are 'waking up'.

To heal quickly and keep swelling to a minimum, eat plenty of lean protein, healthy fats, and nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables. Lower your sodium intake and drink plenty of water to prevent your body from holding onto excess fluids.

Your body has gone through major surgery and need to spend its energy on healing. As you rest, your body can concentrate on this important task. After a tummy tuck, you'll need extra sleep.

You can massage the scars in the shower, with soap and water, and then again with moisturizing cream after you have showered. We suggest scar massage many times throughout the day for 5-10 minutes each session. It is important to strictly follow your post-operative tummy tuck instructions.

The best sleeping position after tummy tuck surgery is on your back with your upper body elevated to create a slight bend or angle. Using pillows or sleeping in a recliner is ideal to achieve this position.

Wearing compression garments that are too tight or too loose impairs healing and causes more harm than good. These garments should ideally provide adequate support to your abdomen's healing areas following liposuction or Tummy Tuck without causing you discomfort. It should snugly fit the new contours of your body.

Will sneezing or coughing hurt my tummy tuck results? Sneezing, coughing and laughing in the days following surgery should not hurt your results (although it might be slightly uncomfortable). Your sutures are designed to withstand normal muscle movement and they will not come out if you sneeze, laugh or cough.

Does walking increase swelling after tummy tuck? ›

Stay mobile: While it is essential that patients get plenty of rest during tummy tuck recovery, it is also important to incorporate very light walking into your daily routine. This helps to reduce swelling, improve circulation, and minimize the risk of postoperative complications, such as blood clots.

After your tummy tuck, you should avoid laying and sleeping on your stomach for at least six weeks.

Plastic surgeons commonly are asked when can I sleep on my side after a tummy tuck. Generally, you can start sleeping on your side after about two weeks post-surgery.

One of the most crucial things you can do for your body after a tummy tuck is rest. Your body has gone through major surgery and need to spend its energy on healing. As you rest, your body can concentrate on this important task. After a tummy tuck, you'll need extra sleep.

How soon can you walk after a tummy tuck? You absolutely can walk up and downstairs immediately after surgery. Once again use common sense. If you need someone to help you on the stairs then do so.